Monte Mor III House by Gui Mattos: A Wooden Retreat Immersed in Brazilian Nature

Set amidst the lush landscape of Monte Mor, Brazil, the Monte Mor III House, designed by Gui Mattos, is a striking example of contemporary Brazilian architecture that embraces nature, craftsmanship, and functionality. Envisioned as a summer residence for a young couple and their two daughters, the 738-square-meter home fosters a strong connection between interior comfort and outdoor living. The design supports a lifestyle rich in family gatherings, cultural interests, and culinary experiences, contrasting their primary residence in urban São Paulo.

A Dialogue with Nature and Privacy

Built on a corner lot that opens directly to the native forest, the house adopts an L-shaped layout that strategically wraps around a garden, pool, and lawn. This configuration not only creates seamless indoor-outdoor transitions but also defines a sheltered, intimate space for family and friends. The architectural language is governed by local regulations that required the use of visible pitched roofs and traditional stylistic elements. In response, the architects conceived a structure built with engineered wood portals, offering a rhythmic and tactile exterior shell that blends harmoniously with the environment.

Hidden Brutalism and Expressed Structure

While the outer timber structure conforms to aesthetic restrictions, it cleverly conceals orthogonal concrete volumes—a material deeply valued by the clients. These bold concrete elements shape the internal organization of the home but remain hidden behind the wooden envelope, preserving the visual coherence required by the neighborhood while delivering a modernist spatial experience within.

Warm Interiors Rooted in Craft

Inside, the residence reveals a sequence of open-plan spaces marked by exposed wooden beams, natural brickwork, and generous fenestration. The living and dining areas, unified under a soaring wooden roof, are richly furnished with handcrafted pieces from Carlos Motta, Estúdio Bola, and Tora Brasil, creating a warm and timeless atmosphere. Floor-to-ceiling openings ensure the home is continuously bathed in natural light, while offering unobstructed views of the surrounding greenery.

Adaptive and Evolving Spaces

Originally conceived as a leisure-focused retreat, the home’s programming evolved during the COVID-19 pandemic. A mezzanine level—once imagined for casual recreation—was transformed into a flexible workspace and home library, complete with vinyl record storage and a custom desk. Additional retractable elements were integrated into the master suite to accommodate remote work demands, proving the project’s ability to adapt to changing lifestyles.

Material Palette and Custom Details

Throughout the home, the use of sustainable materials such as wood, natural stone, and artisanal textiles reflects a commitment to local craftsmanship and tactile richness. Custom-designed elements by Noox Design, Prototype, and Olho Interni further personalize the interiors, reinforcing the home’s role as both a sanctuary and a celebration of Brazilian design culture.

Monte Mor III House offers a refined balance between contemporary architecture and regional sensitivity—where landscape, lifestyle, and legislation converge in a design that’s both personal and poetic.

All Photographs are works of Pablo Casals Aguirre